Dreaming of a Mediterranean escape? You can taste the delicacies from abroad right here at home – from Greek tavernas and Italian trattorias to Spanish tapas bars and beyond. Australia really is home to a melting pot of Mediterranean restaurants that will serve up sun-drenched flavours and slow-cooked delights night after night.
If you’re craving paella in Sydney, handmade pasta in Melbourne or chargrilled octopus by the coast, we’ve got the best spots for you to indulge yourself – and transport your tastebuds.
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It's perfect for Mediterranean sharing plates with panoramic harbour views.You need to try the mezze platter and grilled octopus or lamb ribs.Look out for sun-drenched terraces, wine list full of Greek gems and relaxed elegance.Wander down King Street Wharf and straight into a Greek island escape at Georges Mediterranean Bar & Grill – there’s fresh seafood, mezze platters and traditional souvlaki just waiting for you to celebrate the Mediterranean simplicity. With a renovated interior and a stellar wine and cocktail list, it’s Sydney’s go-to for laid-back Greek indulgence.Read more -
It's perfect for relaxed weekend feasting that feels straight out of Italy.You need to try the woodfired pizzas, thin, crispy and made for sharing.Look out for the leafy terrace and rustic Tuscan-style interiors.Rustic, welcoming and packed to the brim with the aroma of wood-fired creations, Cavallino brings authentic Italian flavours to Sydney’s northern suburbs. Signature dishes hero fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes from Italy’s Campania region. Best of all, you can enjoy an intimate dinner or a celebration for up to 350 guests – this is Italian hospitality at its finest.Read more -
Housed in a charming old bank, The Alphington Social blends traditional Italian roots with modern creativity. Think nduja linguine, slow-cooked lamb shoulder and a feed-me menu that lets you sample the very best Mediterranean in a laid-back setting. Don’t leave without something from the cheese fridge: a tempting wall of Italian formaggi makes for a naughty – but necessary – takeaway.Read more -
It's perfect for craving Italian flair without actually leaving the suburbs.You need to try the dukkah‑crusted salmon or garlic arancini—they’re neighborhood legends.Look out for its top‑rank on Tripadvisor and wicked gnocchi menu.Family-owned and always buzzing, Vibrante is an Italian institution in Templestowe. It’s got a menu packed with traditional pizzas, pastas and fresh seafood, which are all best enjoyed in the sun-drenched courtyard. The dining-room-turned-function-space makes it an easy pick for large gatherings, but it’s just as perfect for a casual meal.Read more -
The effortlessly coastal Citron Bayside channels a Mediterranean summer all year round. You could come here for a leisurely breakfast that’s bursting with flavour or settle in for a long lunch with a bottle of French, Spanish or local wine. This is Wellington Point’s answer to la dolce vita – best enjoyed streetside with a spritz in hand.Read more -
It's perfect for luxe mezze feasts by the river with a dash of Mediterranean heat.You need to try the wagyu skewers with chimichurri or slow-cooked lamb shoulder to dive into.Look out for opulent décor and views that make every bite feel celebratoryMiddle Eastern elegance meets waterfront dining at Byblos. Here you’ll find a sophisticated riverside escape in Hamilton jam-packed with Lebanese flavours with a full-on Mediterranean twist, from chargrilled meats to fragrant mezze. Expect a world-class drinks selection and stunning views of Moreton Bay, so enjoy your cocktails and cuisine on your perfect night to remember.Read more -
It's perfect for laid-back lunches or morning coffees by the water.You need to try eggs your way or a classic steak sandwich.Look out for a front-row seat to the river and city skyline.Floating over the River Torrens is this Adelaide institution that starts you off with a modern Italian menu and gives you some of the best city views around. The rolling glass walls blur the line between indoor and outdoor dining, while the chef’s focus on organic, free-range ingredients mean every dish – from handmade pasta to fresh seafood – is of the finest quality.Read more -
Step into 1960s Mediterranean glamour at Maria, where luxury and indulgence arrive in spades along the Hobart waterfront. You’ll get sweeping harbour views from Brooke Street Pier, but most important is the sophisticated eatery that’s all about rich flavours in a menu that will undoubtedly transport you to sun-drenched European summers – without even having to head to the mainland.Read more -
A modern gastropub with Spanish-inspired South American flair, Casey Jones is Canberra’s answer to laid-back, good food done right. Locals love enjoying boutique beers over brunch, but make sure you stay for a long dinner of bold Mediterranean flavours that feel like a celebration with every bite.Read more
From Greek tavernas to Italian trattorias and Middle Eastern feasts, these Mediterranean restaurants bring sun-drenched flavours to Australia. Explore these spots or discover more Mediterranean hidden gems serving up the very best eats, right here at home.